Do I need wider tyres for the gravel on Junction Road?
The NakiCity guide
Yes. The first 16 km of Junction Road is gravel, so you need wide road tyres or mountain bike tyres for that stretch.
New Plymouth Questions
New Plymouth people helping New Plymouth people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
How steep does the Tarata Saddle climb get, and do many riders end up walking sections?
How long does the Tawhiti Bush Railway ride take?
The NakiCity guide
The Bush Railway trip takes about half an hour. It takes you back to the early logging days.
Is Tawhiti Museum worth doing on a wet day, or is much of it outside?
Are there beginner-friendly mountain bike trails at Mangamahoe?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the Mangamahoe mountain bike park has tracks for all abilities. Family-friendly grade 2 trails are near the park entrance, and the hardest go up to grade 6.
Is any of the lower lakeside loop sealed, or is it all gravel and forest track?
What is there for kids to ride at Taranaki Cycle Park in Bell Block?
The NakiCity guide
Taranaki Cycle Park has a learners pad, a pump track, an obstacle course and a mini road circuit with traffic lights. It also has a 1.75km closed road circuit and a 333m velodrome.
Is there anywhere along the Mangati path to fill up a water bottle?
Is there a safe way for kids to bike to Mangamahoe from town?
The NakiCity guide
A safer link from town is being worked on, with young riders who don't have a licence in mind. One of the first fixes is the reserve entry off SH3 just past the Burgess Hill bridge.
Is there drinking water near the carpark or should I bring all my own?
Where do I park when I go to Taranaki Cycle Park?
The NakiCity guide
Park on St Andrews Drive. From Bell Block, take Parklands Avenue, turn onto Smeaton Road, then continue onto St Andrews Drive, where parking is available.
Is there much shade around the track in the afternoon, or is it all open sun?
Can I bring my dog to the Mangamahoe mountain bike park?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, dogs are welcome on the bike park trails. They need to be well-behaved, and you need to clean up after them.
Is there drinking water at the car park, or should I bring my own?
How long are the walks from the car park?
The NakiCity guide
The Meeting of the Waters Walk takes about 20 minutes, and the Araheke Bush Loop Walk takes about 45 minutes. Both can be accessed from the car park.
Is the swimming hole shallow enough for young kids to paddle safely?
How long is the Moki Tunnel on this route?
The NakiCity guide
The Moki Tunnel is 180 m long and single lane. It was built in 1936 and is known locally as the Hobbit's Hole.
Has anyone done this with kids on their own bikes? Is the traffic okay for them?
Can I buy food and drinks at the New Plymouth BMX track?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the club has a shop on site that sells food and drinks.
Is there a pump track near the BMX track for the younger kids to ride?
How long does the whole Ōpunakē Loop Trail take to walk?
The NakiCity guide
Allow about 3 to 4 hours for the full 7 km loop. You can join the walk from several easy access points, though the boat ramp on Layard Street is the best place to start the whole loop.
Can a wheelchair manage any of the loop, or are the grass and gravel bits too rough?
Is there a car park at Paritutu Centennial Park?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there is a car park at the base of Paritutu, reached from Centennial Drive.
Is there any shade around the park and the base of the rock, or is it fully exposed in the afternoon?
What are the opening hours at Ōākura Library?
The NakiCity guide
Monday, Wednesday and Friday are 11am to 5pm, and Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday are 9am to 1pm. It's closed on Sundays.
Is there a printer visitors can use at Ōākura Library, and is it easy to get a print done?
Is there much parking at North Egmont at the moment?
The NakiCity guide
No, parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. Expect trucks and delays, and carpool or take a shuttle if you can.
Can you do any of the walks from North Egmont in a wheelchair?
Is the ground in the marked spaces level enough for a good night's sleep in a van?
Can I photocopy or scan documents at Bell Block Library, and what does it cost?
The NakiCity guide
Yes. Scanning on the photocopiers is free, so bring a USB stick. Copies are 20c per A4 black and white page, 50c for A3, $1 for A4 colour and $2 for A3 colour.
Is there a kids' area where little ones can sit and look at books while you browse?
Can I photocopy or scan documents at Waitara library?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the library has colour photocopiers for copying and scanning. There are also computers you can use, plus free internet and wifi.
Is there a quiet spot to sit and study, or does it get noisy after school?
Does Urenui Library have DVDs and kids' books I can borrow?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, you can borrow adult and children's fiction and non-fiction books, DVDs and audiobooks. There are also newspapers and magazines to read at the library.
Can you print from the public computers at Urenui, or is it only photocopying?
How long is the Waitara Heritage Trail, and is it an easy walk?
The NakiCity guide
The Waitara Heritage Trail is an easy 1.7km walk. It follows the Waitara River from West Quay in the town centre to Marine Park near the river mouth.
How full do the six spaces get on a weekend, and what time do you need to get there?
Can I take a coffee or snack into the galleries?
The NakiCity guide
No, food and drink aren't allowed in any gallery space. You can have them in the Todd Energy Learning Centre, and there's a water fountain near the ground floor toilets.
Is it worth taking primary school age kids, or do they get bored quickly?
Is there free wifi at Inglewood library?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there's free internet and wifi, and you can use the library's computers too.
Is there a decent kids' corner at Inglewood library where little ones can sit and read?
Which community libraries are there around New Plymouth besides the main Puke Ariki one?
The NakiCity guide
Bell Block, Inglewood, Ōākura, Urenui and Waitara each have a community library, in addition to the main Puke Ariki Library in the centre of New Plymouth.
How long does it take to get started with the Housebound Readers Service?
Does the Pātea museum have a shop?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there's a shop at the museum. It also has a reference library, a function space and the Livingston Baker Archives and Reading Room, which you need to book for research.
Do kids stay interested in the museum, or is it mostly for adults?
Is Kingsroy Gallery close to the Govett-Brewster and Len Lye Centre?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Kingsroy is in New Plymouth's arts district, near the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre, so the two are easy to visit together.
Any steps at the entrance, and is there room for a wheelchair to get around inside?
Is there a café at Puke Ariki?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there's a café on site, and a museum shop too.
Is it easy to find a quiet spot to study in the library on weekdays?
Is Te Henui Vicarage close to the Te Henui Walkway?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, it sits beside the Te Henui Stream and near the Te Henui Walkway, so it makes a handy stop for walkers exploring the area.
Are there toilets you can use when the gallery is open on weekends?
Is the museum on the original Fun Ho! factory site in Inglewood?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the museum is on the site of the former Fun Ho! factory in Inglewood. They still cast new toys there using the original moulding plates.
Is it all undercover? Thinking of going on a wet day with the kids.
Is Kina within walking distance of the Len Lye Centre?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, it's a short walk. Kina sits in New Plymouth's western arts precinct, close to the Len Lye Centre and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.
Are there any info panels inside about the history of the Exchange Chambers building?
Does the bowls museum have a library I can use for research?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the museum has an extensive library as well as its displays of bowling memorabilia like trophies, uniforms, photographs and club badges.
Would primary school age kids get much out of it, or is it mainly for bowls fans?
Is there an interval during shows, and can you get a drink?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, most shows have an interval of about 15 to 20 minutes. The bars and Kandy Bars are open during it, so you can grab a drink or a snack.
Has anyone taken young kids to a show here? Do they cope okay in the theatre?
What time does Pukeiti close each day?
The NakiCity guide
Pukeiti is open all day, every day, so there is no 5pm closing time for the gardens and tracks.
How steep are the garden paths? Thinking of bringing a pram.
Is there a phone number to ring before heading out?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, ring 06 752 2845. It's worth a call if you want to visit outside weekends and public holidays, as other times and group visits are by arrangement.
Does anyone show you around the displays, or is it all self-guided?
How far is Naumai Park from New Plymouth by road?
The NakiCity guide
It's about 75 km from New Plymouth, which is roughly an hour's drive.
Are there public toilets at Naumai Park or close by, or should you go before you get there?
Is there parking at the start of the Whitecliffs Walkway?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, park at the Pukearuhe boat ramp at the end of Pukearuhe Road. Leave room for access to the boat ramp and the farm, and be considerate of others who need to park at the road end.
Is there much shade along the loop, or is it pretty exposed on a sunny day?
Which football club is based at Lynmouth Park?
The NakiCity guide
FC Western, an association football club, is based at Lynmouth Park on Devon Street West.
Are there toilets near the playground at Lynmouth Park, and are they open?
What is in the playground at Peringa Park?
The NakiCity guide
There's a small playground at the edge of the fields with swings, a seesaw, a spinner and a play unit.
Is there any shade around the fields to sit in on a sunny afternoon?
Is there a playground near Audrey Gale Reserve?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the adjacent Merrilands Domain has playground facilities for families, so it is handy if you are bringing kids to the reserve.
Are there toilets at the reserve, or do you have to go to the domain?
What's the driving route to Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve from New Plymouth?
The NakiCity guide
It's 7.4 km south of New Plymouth. Follow Tukapa Street for 5 km, then turn into Cowling Road, then into Ratapihipihi Road.
Are there toilets at the car park, or should I go before driving out?
Are there toilets at Tūpare, and where are they?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the toilets are down the driveway around the back of the gardeners' cottage. The drive is steep, so it's a bit of a walk from the car park.
Has anyone managed the paths at Tūpare with a pram, or is it too steep?
Does Otupaiia Marine Park have water play for kids?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, water play has been added in the recent upgrades, along with a new skatepark and youth zone elements.
How busy does the playground get on weekends and school holidays?
Where can I pick up a printed map of Pukekura Park?
The NakiCity guide
Collect a printed map from the Tea House on the Lake or the Fernery and Display Houses. There's no timed loop published, so the map is handy for a self-guided walk.
Is the playground big enough to keep a 10 year old interested, or is it more for little ones?
Does the Kāwaroa playground have a pump track?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there's a pump track, plus climbing platforms and swings. Water play and natural play areas are on site too.
Is any of the playground fenced off from the Coastal Walkway?
Does it cost anything to get into Brooklands Zoo?
The NakiCity guide
No, Brooklands Zoo is free to enter. Donations are welcome and go towards animal care, conservation and enrichment programmes, and cash donations can be made at the zoo.
Are there proper picnic tables near the zoo, or is it a rug on the grass?
How big are Waipu Lagoons?
The NakiCity guide
The three small lakelets add up to about 2 hectares. With the adjoining wetlands, the whole reserve covers 7.9 hectares.
Is there much shade along the paths, or is it all open to the sun and wind?
Are there changing rooms and toilets at Ngāmotu Beach?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the beach has toilets and changing facilities, plus a picnic area and car parking. Food and drink is available nearby too.
Is it easy to get a pram from the car park to the playground, or is it sandy?
Are the fields at Vogeltown Park floodlit for evening games?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Vogeltown Park has three floodlit grounds, along with changing rooms and a club house used by New Plymouth Old Boys rugby club.
Is there any water play for kids at Vogeltown Park, or just the swings?
Can I get to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge by bus?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Citylink buses run nearby. You can also reach the bridge on foot or by bike along the Coastal Walkway.
Is there any shade by the river near the bridge on a hot afternoon?
What is the street address for Merrilands Domain?
The NakiCity guide
It's at 251 Mangorei Road, New Plymouth. The hall sits next to the New Plymouth Rangers Football clubrooms.
Is the river shallow and gentle enough for young kids to paddle at Merrilands?
Is there a side trip off the Huatoki Walkway worth taking?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, an optional side route climbs Marsland Hill, a historic site with war memorials and a carillon that plays bells on the hour from 9am to 5pm.
Is there anywhere along the Huatoki Walkway to fill up a drink bottle?
Is there parking at Back Beach, and is it a long walk to the sand?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there's parking near the beach entrance, with steps giving direct access to the sand. Spaces can fill up during peak summer periods, so go early on a hot day.
Is there anywhere to get changed at Back Beach, or do you just use the car?
How long should I wait to swim at East End after heavy rain?
The NakiCity guide
Wait at least three days after heavy or prolonged rain, even though the beach usually tests well. The Te Hēnui Stream nearby can wash a lot of runoff into the sea. Avoid it if the water looks murky or smells.
Is there much shade on the beach or reserve in the afternoon?
Where can I get a view of Taranaki Maunga along the walkway near Waiwhakaiho?
The NakiCity guide
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge on the Coastal Walkway is the spot. It's a distinctive white bridge with views toward Taranaki Maunga on clear days.
How busy does the Waiwhakaiho river mouth get on a sunny weekend, and is parking easy?
Is there a safe beach for kids to swim at along the Coastal Walkway?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Ngāmotu Beach near the Port end of the walkway is a safe swimming beach for families.
Do e-bike riders get along okay on the walkway, or are there any rules to know about?
What types of accommodation does Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park offer?
The NakiCity guide
The holiday park has peaceful, sheltered sites plus studio cabins and one or two bedroom cabins, so there is something for most budgets.
Is there any shade on the beach or should I bring my own for the afternoon?
Do cyclists share the Te Henui path with walkers?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, it's a popular bike path, so expect plenty of cyclists using the same track as walkers. Keep an ear out for bikes, especially on busier days.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle along Te Henui, or should I bring my own?
Can I camp overnight at the Mangorei Road car park?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, overnight camping is allowed at the Mangorei Road car park, which is the start of the Pouākai Tarns tramp. Stratford Plateau car park on Pembroke Road is the other option.
Is there much shade on the Mangorei Track, or is it exposed most of the way up?
Are there toilets and changing rooms at Kāwaroa Park?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the redeveloped Kāwaroa Park has toilets and changing rooms. There is also parking and space for food trucks.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap near the playground, or should I bring water?
How long is the Stony River walk and how long does it take?
The NakiCity guide
It's 3 km return on the same track and takes about an hour. You can do a loop instead, but that means wading the unbridged Kaihihi Stream.
Is there much shade on the walk, or is it mostly open farmland in the afternoon?
How long do the two walks at Meeting of the Waters take?
The NakiCity guide
The Meeting of the Waters Walk takes about 20 minutes and the Araheke Bush Loop Walk about 45 minutes. Both can be reached from the car park.
Is the riverside picnic area shaded in the afternoon, or does the sun get in?
What is there to skate at East End Skatepark?
The NakiCity guide
East End has quarter pipes, banks, rails and ledges on smooth concrete. It suits both beginners and more experienced skaters.
Is there a drinking tap near the skatepark, or should I bring my own water?
How long is the Moki Tunnel on the Forgotten World Highway, and is it single lane?
The NakiCity guide
The Moki Tunnel is 180 m long and single lane. It's known locally as the Hobbit's Hole.
Are there public toilets along the route, or is it mostly bush stops?
Where does the Cowling Plantation Walk start at Barrett Domain?
The NakiCity guide
It starts about 200 m down the gravel track from the Roto Street entrance, at the Fred Cowling memorial seat.
Do young kids cope okay on the tracks at Barrett Domain?
Do you have to cross the stream to do the full Wilkies Pools loop?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the full loop means rock hopping across Kapuni Stream, and there is no bridge. Families with young children may prefer to go back the way they came. It can be impassable after heavy rain.
Are there toilets at the Dawson Falls car park, and are they open when you get there?
Is there any shade over the playground at Hickford Park?
The NakiCity guide
Probably some. Sunshade sails for the playground were part of recent council upgrade work at the park, though it's not clear how much of the play area they cover.
How busy does Hickford Park get on Saturday mornings with the sport on?
Is there a playground near Marfell Skatepark?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there's a playground on the lower level of Marfell Park, along with a BMX track. The skatepark and two sports fields are up on the upper level.
Is there any shade at Marfell skatepark on a hot afternoon?
Is the road out to Mount Damper Falls safe to drive, or are there logging trucks?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, large logging trucks operate in the area. The roads are narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
Is there still a decent flow over the falls in a dry summer, or does it dwindle?
How long is the Kapuni Loop Track at Dawson Falls?
The NakiCity guide
The Kapuni Loop is 1.4 km and takes about an hour. It's an easy to intermediate walk through mountain rainforest past Dawson Falls.
Is it easy to get a park near the falls on a weekend, or does the car park fill up?
Can I just walk one way from Dawson Falls up to the Stratford Plateau?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, you can walk one way. It is 3.1 km and takes about 1 hr 20 min, finishing near the Plateau car park, so you will need a lift back or a car waiting.
Is it hard to get a park at the Dawson Falls car park on a weekend?
How long should I wait after heavy rain before swimming at Merrilands Domain?
The NakiCity guide
Wait at least three days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming at Merrilands Domain. Avoid swimming at any time if the water looks murky or smells unpleasant.
Is the river okay for a beginner, or is the wading too rough with the boulders?
Can I hire a distress beacon for the Pouākai Crossing?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, you can hire one at the North Taranaki Visitor Centre at North Egmont. Part of the track has no mobile coverage, so it is worth carrying one.
Are there toilets along the track, like at the huts or near the tarns?
Are there any unbridged stream crossings on the way to Bells Falls?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Minarapa Stream just before Holly Hut is unbridged and can be impassable after heavy rain. Bells Falls is a side trip from the hut, so you cross it on the way in.
Is there a pool at the bottom of Bells Falls that's worth a dip in summer?
Is there parking close to the water at Lake Mangamahoe?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there are car parks inside the main gates and others right by the lake, so you won't have to walk far with your gear.
Are there toilets at the lake, or should I go before I head out?
Are there toilets close to the track and skatepark, or do you have to go elsewhere?
Is there a tackle shop within walking distance of the Lee Breakwater?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Hunting Fishing Taranaki is on Ocean View Parade, a short walk away. Ask there what has been caught off the breakwater lately and which rigs and baits are working.
Is the breakwater walkway okay for kids who are new to fishing, or is it rough going?
Can I hire a surfboard in Ōpunakē if I don't have my own?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, surfboards can be hired in town. There are also natural surf breaks along the coast road, so you can head out once you have a board.
Is there anywhere to rinse off with a hot or cold shower after a swim at Ōpunakē Beach?
Is there a New Year's Day event at Ōākura Beach?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the beach hosts a New Year's Day Carnival that draws thousands of people. It raises money for New Plymouth Old Boys Surf Life Saving Club each year.
Are there any picnic tables near the beach at Ōākura?
Is there a car park at the start of the Curtis Falls Track?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the track starts from the car park at Ngāti Ruanui Stratford Mountain House, where you head right down steps into the Te Pōpō Stream valley.
Are there toilets at the car park, or anywhere near the start of the track?
What happens if I break the whitebait rules at Waitara?
The NakiCity guide
You can get a $400 infringement fee, or be prosecuted with a maximum penalty of $5,000, and your fishing gear can be seized.
How easy is it to find parking near the river mouth when the kahawai are in?
Is there parking at the Waitara beaches?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there are car parks right beside Waitara West Beach, and you reach the sand by the walkway next to them.
Is there anywhere to get changed at Waitara West or East Beach, or do you just use the toilets?
Is there a surf break at Bell Block Beach?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, Mangatai (Bell Block Reef) offshore is a regionally significant surf break.
Is there easy parking near the beach at the end of Mangati Road, even on a sunny weekend?
Is the Dawson Falls Power Station Track a loop or do you come back the same way?
The NakiCity guide
It's not a loop. You return the same way you came in, and the track is only about 50 m long from the roadside.
Is it easy to find a park near the Manaia Road start, or does it get busy?
How long should I wait after heavy rain before swimming at Wai-iti Beach?
The NakiCity guide
Stay out for at least three days after heavy or prolonged rain, even if the water is usually good. Also avoid swimming if it looks murky or smells unpleasant.
Is there any natural shade on Wai-iti Beach in the afternoon?
Is the Cave Walk a loop, or do you come back the same way?
The NakiCity guide
It's not a loop. You walk 600 m return on the same track. Just before the river it splits, left to the cave and river views, right to a sandy riverbank.
Is the Cave Walk doable in a wheelchair, or is the track too rough?
Can I camp overnight at the North Egmont road end near the Ambury Monument?
The NakiCity guide
No, freedom camping is prohibited at the North Egmont road end. You can camp overnight at Stratford Plateau car park on Pembroke Road or at Mangorei Road car park.
Is the Ambury Monument walk a good one for young kids, say a 4 year old?
How far is North Egmont from New Plymouth by road?
The NakiCity guide
It's about 29 km by road. Drive 13 km south to Egmont Village, turn off State Highway 3 onto Egmont Road and follow it 16 km to the end.
Can you get a pram around the Connett Loop, or is the surface too rough?
Does the Nature Walk loop cross a road?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, it crosses Translator Road. After the Ambury Monument the track turns left and descends to the road, then goes back into the forest and heads down to the visitor centre.
How busy does the Nature Walk get on weekends and is the car park full by mid morning?
Can I take my dog on the Boars Head Mine Track?
The NakiCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed on the Boars Head Mine Track. The track is also closed until further notice, so check its current status before you plan a trip.
Is there much room to park at the Weld Road start, or does it fill up?
How far is North Egmont from New Plymouth by road?
The NakiCity guide
It's about 29 km. Drive 13 km south to Egmont Village, then turn onto Egmont Road and follow it 16 km to the end, where the North Taranaki Visitor Centre is.
How often is the viewing platform clouded in, and is it worth the drive if the mountain is hidden?
Is there another walk in Everett Park reserve besides the riverside one?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, the Cave Walk is another short track in the same reserve. It starts 3 km down Everett Road, just past the northern entrance.
Is the track between the two picnic areas okay for a pram?
Is the Veronica Loop part of the Pouākai Crossing?
The NakiCity guide
Partly. The lower part of the Veronica Loop is also the first section of the Pouākai Crossing, so you share that stretch of track with people starting the Crossing.
How do primary school kids cope with the long climb up the steps?
How far is the Stratford Plateau car park beyond the Mountain House on Pembroke Road?
The NakiCity guide
The road runs about 3 km further from the Mountain House Motor Lodge to the Stratford Plateau car park, at the road end, 1172 m up. The car park has superb views of the surrounding countryside.
Is the boardwalk okay for young kids, or are there open edges to watch?
What was the quarry on the York Road Loop used for?
The NakiCity guide
It supplied metal for Taranaki roads and rock for Port Taranaki in New Plymouth until the late 1920s. The quarry finally closed in the late 1940s.
Has anyone taken a pram on the York Road loop? Is the surface rough or muddy?
How far is the drive from Stratford Mountain House up to the Plateau car park?
The NakiCity guide
It's another 3 km up Pembroke Road from the Ngāti Ruanui Stratford Mountain House. The road ends at the Plateau car park, where the Manganui Gorge Track starts.
How steep is the climb up to the bridge? Okay for someone not very fit?
How do I drive to Dawson Falls from Stratford?
The NakiCity guide
Turn off State Highway 23 into Celia Street, which becomes Opunake Road. Follow it for 14 km, turn right into Manaia Road, then go 9 km up the mountain to the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.
Is it hard to find a park at the Dawson Falls visitor centre on weekends?
Is parking easy at North Egmont right now?
The NakiCity guide
No, parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. Carpooling or a shuttle is recommended, and expect occasional delays from large trucks on the road.
How steep is the Kōkōwai Track descent, and is it hard on the knees?
What should I wear and carry for the Sefton Ridge Track?
The NakiCity guide
Wear sturdy shoes, ideally tramping boots. Pack a waterproof jacket and plenty of warm layers, as the weather can change quickly.
Does the Lucy's Gully car park fill up on weekends?
Is the Davies Track a loop or one way?
The NakiCity guide
No, it's a 4.2 km one way tramping track. You can combine it with the Waimoku Track for a longer trip.
How steep does the Davies Track get in the bush? Any bits where you need your hands?
Are there toilets at the start of the Stratford Plateau lookout walk?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the Stratford Plateau car park. Take the right-hand turn just below them and follow the signs to the lookout.
Anyone know if bikes are okay on the lookout track, or is it walking only?
What should I wear for the Waimoku Track?
The NakiCity guide
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, ideally tramping boots, and pack a waterproof jacket and plenty of warm layers so you're ready for any weather.
Is there much room to park at Lucy's Gully, and does it fill up on weekends?
Is parking at North Egmont limited right now?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. Carpooling or a shuttle is the way to go.
How long do people really take to get from the lookout to Holly Hut?
What should I wear for the Ngatoro Loop Track?
The NakiCity guide
Dress for any weather. The weather on the mountain changes rapidly, so bring suitable clothing and equipment for all conditions, and check the Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki forecast before you go.
Are there toilets at North Egmont before you set off on the loop?
How long is the drive from New Plymouth to the Maude Road end?
The NakiCity guide
It's around twenty minutes' drive from New Plymouth to the end of Maude Road, where the track starts.
Do the falls look much better after rain, or is the track too slippery by then?
Is it easy to find parking at North Egmont right now?
The NakiCity guide
No, parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. Carpooling or a shuttle is recommended, and expect occasional delays from large trucks on the road.
Are there toilets at North Egmont while the new visitor centre is being built?
Which road do I turn off to get to the Kamahi Loop from Stratford?
The NakiCity guide
Turn off SH23 onto Pembroke Road at the northern end of Stratford. The track starts just above the Mountain House, 15 km along Pembroke Road.
Has anyone managed the Kamahi Loop with a pram, or are the steps too much?
Is there parking at North Egmont for the Maketawa Hut Circuit?
The NakiCity guide
Parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. Carpooling or a shuttle is recommended, and the visitor centre is open in a temporary building in the upper car park.
How steep is the Maketawa Track compared with the Translator Road side?
What grade are the Lake Dive tracks?
The NakiCity guide
Both the upper and lower Lake Dive tracks are graded Advanced. They are tramping tracks, so expect rough, exposed and unbridged sections rather than an easy walk.
Is there enough parking at the Dawson Falls road end on a fine weekend?
Is there a walking track near Lake Ngangana?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, a walking track runs along the Waitara riverbank and reaches some of the fishing spots.
Is it alright to bring a dog along while fishing here?
Can I bring my dog along when fishing at Everett Park?
The NakiCity guide
No, dogs are not allowed at Everett Park Scenic Reserve, so leave them at home when you fish the Manganui there.
Could someone in a wheelchair get down to the river at Everett Park?
How hard is the Mangaotuku Walkway for cycling?
The NakiCity guide
It's easy. The walkway is graded Easy overall and has a bike grade of 2, so it suits relaxed riding.
What's the surface like along the stream, and is it okay for riding after rain?
How big was the worst flood recorded on the Stony River?
The NakiCity guide
The notable flood recorded at Mangatētē Bridge was in April 2008, at about 515 cubic metres per second. It shows how big the river can get, so stay off it when it's rising.
Would the Stony River suit a beginner or someone fishing with kids?
Is parking limited at North Egmont for the start of the circuit?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, car parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. Carpooling or a shuttle is a good idea.
Are there toilets at the North Egmont end before you head off?
Where do the tracks to Waingongoro Hut start from?
The NakiCity guide
You can start from Dawson Falls Visitor Centre, up Manaia Road, or from Stratford Mountain House, up Pembroke Road off State Highway 3 in Stratford.
Is it easy to find a park at Dawson Falls on a weekend, or does it fill up?
Can I hire crampons and an ice axe in New Plymouth?
The NakiCity guide
No, there's nowhere in Taranaki to hire alpine equipment, so you need to arrange your crampons, ice axe and helmet before you get here.
How busy does the North Egmont car park get on a fine summer weekend, and what time should I arrive?
Can I hire a distress beacon for the Pouākai Circuit?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, you can hire a distress beacon at the North Taranaki Visitor Centre at North Egmont. Tell someone your plans before you set out and carry the beacon with you.
How full does the North Egmont car park get on a weekend if you're leaving a car overnight?
How long is the drive from New Plymouth to the Dover Route start?
The NakiCity guide
It's around half an hour's drive from New Plymouth. The track starts on Carrington Road near the junction with Dover Road.
Does the small car park by the Katikara Stream bridge fill up on weekends?
Are there any steep bits on the Windsor Walkway loop, or is it fairly flat all the way?
Is the water quality in the Waiongana and Mangaoraka getting better?
The NakiCity guide
Yes. Water quality has stabilised and ecological health is improving across the catchment, and new planting along the banks should help it keep improving.
How far is the walk from the road to the water at the Brown Road strip, and is it easy going?
Can I hire an ice axe and crampons in Taranaki before the climb?
The NakiCity guide
No, there is nowhere in Taranaki to hire alpine equipment. If there is snow and ice you need to bring your own ice axe, crampons and helmet.
How busy does the car park at the Dawson Falls road end get on a summer weekend?
Is there a boat ramp at Lake Ratapiko?
The NakiCity guide
Yes, there is a ramp at the lake, and the clubs use it. Check with them before launching your boat.
Are there any toilets at the lake near the club areas?
Are there any public toilets along the path or near the netball courts?
Nothing here right now.